2000 Caterham 7 vs. 1972 Datsun 240Z
To start off, 2000 Caterham 7 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Datsun 240Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Datsun 240Z would be higher. At 2,393 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Datsun 240Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Caterham 7 (170 HP @ 10750 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1972 Datsun 240Z. (151 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1972 Datsun 240Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Datsun 240Z weights approximately 628 kg more than 2000 Caterham 7.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1972 Datsun 240Z (198 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Caterham 7. (125 Nm @ 8250 RPM). This means 1972 Datsun 240Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Caterham 7. 1972 Datsun 240Z has automatic transmission and 2000 Caterham 7 has manual transmission. 2000 Caterham 7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 Datsun 240Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Caterham 7 | 1972 Datsun 240Z | |
| Make | Caterham | Datsun |
| Model | 7 | 240Z |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1137 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 151 HP |
| Engine RPM | 10750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 58 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 212 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 440 kg | 1068 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2300 mm |
